Leafy Greens Guide: 5 Recipes, and the Benefits of 4 Vegetables

Work your way toward hitting your daily serving of vegetables by adding more leafy greens into your eating routine. High in nutrients and low in calories, leafy greens can give your diet a substantial health boost. Several varieties can be grown year-round, so you can always be eating seasonally when you add those particular leafy greens to your recipes. The vitamins and minerals in each varies by plant, and they have so many more uses that just salads. Keep reading for new takes on four leafy greens and their respective health benefits.

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1. Chard or Swiss Chard: Swiss Chard with Raisins and Almonds

According to the Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture, you’ll be able to purchase Swiss chard year-round because it is always in season. Seattle Market Gardens says that the green is great for vitamin A, can prevent inflammation, and is a good choice for bone health. On top of that, consuming Swiss chard can promote better lung and digestive health, too.

Enjoy your Swiss chard with a hint of sweetness and a slight crunch by preparing it with raisins and almonds, like in this side dish recipe from Gourmet via Epicurious.